A quiet Saturday garage cleanout on a Compton block turned into a full-blown evacuation after a resident spotted what looked like a hand grenade. Deputies rushed in, blocked off the street, and told neighbors to clear out while bomb technicians moved in to check the device. No injuries were reported as crews evaluated what they were dealing with.
According to CBS Los Angeles, the discovery came in around 2:45 p.m. on the 1400 block of Zamora Avenue after the resident called 911. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said Arson/Explosive Detail personnel with the Special Enforcement Bureau responded and evacuated homes within a three-block radius while they continued their investigation.
Another Compton evacuation earlier this week
It was not the first bomb scare for Compton this week. Deputies also cleared a neighborhood near the 800 block of North Chester Avenue after a resident reported a possible explosive device, as reported by ABC7 Los Angeles. Officials said a Camp Pendleton explosive detail later picked up that ordnance, and the evacuation was lifted once it was declared non-explosive.
Why crews never assume it is a fake
The Los Angeles Times notes that bomb technicians routinely treat found items as live because even older ordnance can still be dangerous. Earlier this month, a Valley Glen homeowner discovered about 20 sticks of dynamite in a freezer, and neighbors were evacuated while LAPD rendered the materials safe. The paper also recalled last summer’s grenade blast that killed three LASD detectives, a stark reminder of why teams follow strict safety protocols around military-style devices.
Investigation and tips
Officials said the scene remained under investigation and asked anyone with information to contact the Sheriff’s Department. Deputies did not immediately release details about the exact type of device or how it ended up at the home.
No arrests or injuries have been reported. Investigators stayed on scene into the evening while crews worked to remove the item safely. This story will be updated as LASD releases additional information.
